When it comes to your skincare routine, it’s likely that more than one product will become your saving grace in fighting against signs of aging and preserving your appearance. However, some products are more effective than others for fighting off fine lines and wrinkles and will be able to offer your skin the extra protection it needs in your day to day life. While there’s a spot in the lineup for many of your existing products, there’s one serum that dermatologists agree you should be using daily to maintain your youthful glow at any age.
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Collagen is one of the biggest factors determining how quickly you show your age because it keeps your skin firm and promotes elasticity, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. As you grow older, your body naturally begins to produce less collagen, so it can benefit from a boost in the form of your skincare routine. Retinol or Vitamin A is one of the best serums for your skin when it comes to stimulating collagen production, effectively keeping wrinkles at bay.
“Tretinoin, which was the first retinoid approved by FDA to treat wrinkles, works by increasing the making of new collagen. It also stimulates new blood vessels in the skin, giving skin a rosy appearance, fading age spots, and reducing pre cancer skin spots,” explains Dr. Ailynne Marie Vergara-Wijangco, a Clinical Dermatologist and researcher with ThankYourskin.com. In promoting collagen production, retinol and its variants can help to decrease existing wrinkles while making it more difficult for new ones to form, adding longevity to your youthful appearance.
Many of your existing skincare products work together to fight wrinkle production, and retinol is no different. “Using [retinol] along with products that have alpha-hydroxy acids may provide even more skin-smoothing effects,” says Dr. Vergara-Wijangco. Wondering how to distinguish between retinol from tretinoin? “Tretinoin is more aggressive and retinol is more suitable for those with sensitive skin.” If you’re prone to dryness or have noticeable sensitive skin, retinol may be a better choice, but it’s best to ask your doctor before adding any new ingredients into your routine.
When you first begin using retinol you can expect some slight irritation on your face along with redness, but this will pass in time as your skin adjusts to the serum. “Use it nightly and consistently for 3-6 months and you will see your wrinkles fade, skin tone even out & a tighter looking pores. Sunscreen & the rest of the skin care routine will work synergistically,” concludes Dr. Vergara-Wijangco. Wrinkles won’t stand a chance when you expand your skincare routine to include a collagen boosting serum such as retinol, and the earlier you start using it, the better your results will be in the future.
